Washington Post lays off staff, including Ukraine and Middle East bureaus.

The Washington Post said it laid off about one-third of its staff and eliminated its sports section, Book World and several foreign bureaus including Ukraine and the Middle East; the executive editor described the cuts as a move to refocus coverage on politics and national affairs.

The Washington Post announced large staff reductions that affect multiple parts of its newsroom. The company said roughly one-third of its staff were laid off. The cuts include the sports section, Book World and foreign bureaus such as Ukraine and the Middle East. Executive editor Matt Murray said the move was painful but aimed at refocusing the outlet on areas like politics and national affairs. Key facts: - The Post announced layoffs affecting roughly one-third of its staff and the elimination of the sports section, Book World, and several foreign bureaus including Ukraine and the Middle East. - Executive editor Matt Murray described the changes as necessary to put the outlet on a different footing and to concentrate coverage on politics, national affairs and security. - The company did not disclose exact staff totals or financial details; several named correspondents and bureau chiefs announced they had been let go. Summary: The reductions substantially reduce the paper’s international and cultural coverage and have prompted concern within the journalism community. Undetermined at this time.